#nomadicmanny

[holographystudios]

Jaira Miller for Averoes x Nomadic Manny F/W Collection

Nov. 2019 

[parkslopeandpeachtree]

Surrealists Perspective for Modern Attitudes

Emmanuel Rivas, better known as Manny to the many friends and admirers who are attending his debut solo show is ripping and running around the exhibits two floors--three if you count the lobby where empanadas are being served. He’s like a rock star in this community. Two hours passed the exhibits planned opening, congratulations and smiles are the only notes once the works were opened to the public, and great things take time right?

His works are Dali-esque in their dreamlike state and crisp clear colours. A daunting cloud of cannoned eyeballs in an impactful orange takes center stage on the lofts first floor. Obviously influenced by contemporary design and pop-art, Rivas’ signature abstract swirl pattern has made its way on to a mirror, an egg-style lounge chair and into a triptych, which would surely be his most impressive if not most predictable work.

Combining the two styles, on a rectangular canvas set at an angle; his Self-Portrait #2 eventually took first place for most daring and the piece that has stuck with me well into the week. Rivas’ explained, that contrary to my imagination the work isn’t of him drowning but rather a peaceful rebirth; symbolized by the full moon above. This representation strikes me as counter to the cynical nature of our culture and a possible guiding light to lighter days ahead. I left fulfilled and hopeful for the development of his work.

The exhibit “I Still Draw Stick Figures” was open from Nov. 9-11 @ 135 Walton St. Lofts